Samsung EH4000 series (pictures)

The Samsung EH4000 is one of the better budget TVs with a sophisticated design and decent picture quality.

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Overview

The 32-inch television is the most popular size in North America, and if you're researching a second TV, you want to know what to get, right? The Samsung UN32EH4000F is a fine example of a no-frills television that gets the basics right. It has the best picture of the models we tested, and doesn't bother with frivolities like Smart TV. If you want content, then stumping up for a $100 Apple TV is the best way to go.

The EH4000 also bettered its rivals in terms of design -- it has a superslim bezel for a 32-inch -- and it comes with a backlit remote, which the others didn't have.

Sure, you can pay more money and get a much better TV from any of the manufacturers, but if the budget's tight, or you just need a smaller TV, then the Samsung is what I'd recommend.

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Picture quality

Samsung has a reputation for producing high-quality LCD televisions, and while high-end models like the ES8000 tend to lean on this a bit too heavily with little payback, the EH4000 is the kind of high-value TV you'd expect for the money.

Black levels are the best of its type, and shadow details are easily discerned while still retaining cinematic punch. Color fidelity is also a highlight, with tones akin to last year's LCD favorite, the Samsung D630, if lacking that last hint of accuracy.